I-League 2024-25 wrap: Namdhari FC beats Gokulam Kerala; Churchill Brothers stays on top

I-League 2024-25 wrap: Namdhari FC beats Gokulam Kerala; Churchill Brothers stays on top

After posting back-to-back wins in the last two away games, it was a familiar tale of disappointment at home for Gokulam Kerala on Friday night. The former champion was beaten 0-2 by Namdhari FC in the I-League 2024-25.

This was the fourth home match for the Gokulam men, and their wait for a win at the EMS Corporation Stadium continues. They had to pay the price for poor finishing.

In the first 10 minutes alone, they really tested the Namdhari goalkeeper Jaspreet Singh, who would have an excellent game, and even won a couple of corner kicks. But, they squandered all those chances.

On the other hand, the visitor made good use of the opportunities that came its way. The opening goal came against the run of play, with Manvir Singh heading in a corner kick in the 15th minute.

Just four minutes later, it doubled the lead. Cledson da Silva, one of the leading scorers of the season, took his tally to five, from the penalty spot this time.

Gokulam went on to create more chances in the opening half, and enjoyed much more possession (61%). After the interval too, Gokulam continued to attack, only to bungle all the chances.

Churchill Brothers held off Delhi FC’s second half onslaught to eke out a significant 2-1 victory in their I-League match on Friday.

Wayde Lekay (17th minute) and Trijoy Dias (36th) scored for Churchill Brothers, while Hridaya Jain (60th) struck a consolation goal for Delhi FC.

Churchill took an early lead, before fading and desperately hanging on to take the win which extended its lead at the top of the table.

Delhi stays rooted to the bottom half of the table, but will take heart from an improved second-half showing against the leader of the league.